With no control over state energy code, Lacey City Council adopts ordinance
After earlier animated discussions about the impact of the new Washington state energy code on housing prices, the Lacey City Council voted unanimously Thursday to adopt the building codes, including a section for tiny homes, acknowledging that they have little control over the situation.
That’s because whether Lacey City Council liked it or not, the energy codes took effect on Feb. 1.
After hearing from builders confused about the requirements under the new energy code and the cost, they voted 5-2 last week to send a letter to Gov. Jay Inslee, asking him to delay the implementation of the code.
The state Building Code Council voted to do the same in January, but its ruling was appealed, then repealed by Gov. Inslee.
Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder referred to that letter on Thursday, but it wasn’t clear whether Inslee had received it or responded to it.
Why did the council adopt a series of building codes from 2018? The implementation was delayed due to the time it took to develop the codes and the pandemic, building official Wade Duffy told the council.
All that was left on Thursday was for the council to reiterate its support for affordable housing.
“There’s a disconnect between trying to have energy efficiency and the reality of implementing it,” Mayor Ryder said. “I look forward to this city having some better discussions about affordable housing.”
This story was originally published February 19, 2021 at 5:45 AM.
